Air conditioner
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- GD MIDEA AIR CONDITIONING EQUIP CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2022-05-31
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-21
AI Technical Summary
The water filters of existing air conditioners are inconvenient to remove and place, posing a safety hazard, especially the water filters of wall-mounted air conditioners, which are quite high and difficult to remove.
A quick-release assembly was designed, including a movable unlocking component. By switching between the unlocking component and the reset position, the water filter can be quickly disassembled and assembled. Combined with a positioning mechanism and a reset spring, the safe and convenient replacement of the water filter is ensured.
It improves the ease of installation and removal of the water filter, reduces safety hazards, enhances the user experience, and ensures that the humidification function of the air conditioner does not require manual water filling.
Smart Images

Figure CN117190313B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of air conditioners, and more particularly to an air conditioner. Background Technology
[0002] The humidification function of an air conditioner is generally achieved by setting up a water tank and supplying water to the humidifying element. The water tank supplies water to the humidifying element. For wall-mounted air conditioners, the air conditioner is fixed at a high place, and the water tank is difficult to replace.
[0003] Based on this, a technical solution for supplying water to the humidifier via condensate has been proposed in related technologies. However, condensate contains a lot of impurities (dust, foreign matter), and needs to be filtered through a water filter to store the condensate in the water tank before being used as the humidifier water source. The water filter is installed on the front frame of the air conditioner. Although it is more convenient to replace and clean the water filter than the technical solution of setting a water tank, the water filter is set at a relatively high height, which makes it difficult to pick up and put down, poses certain safety hazards, and has poor usability. Summary of the Invention
[0004] The present invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, the present invention provides a water filter for an air conditioner, which offers greater ease of removal and placement, thereby reducing safety hazards.
[0005] An air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: an air conditioner body and a water filter. The air conditioner body has an installation area and includes a water inlet channel and a water outlet channel. The water filter is detachably disposed in the installation area. When the water filter is disposed in the installation area, the water inlet of the water filter is connected to the water inlet channel, and the water outlet of the water filter is connected to the water outlet channel. A quick-release assembly is provided in the installation area to lock the water filter in the installation area. The quick-release assembly includes an unlocking member movable relative to the air conditioner body. When the unlocking member moves to the unlocking position, the quick-release assembly is adapted to release the lock on the water filter.
[0006] According to the embodiments of the present invention, by providing a water filter and a quick-release assembly for locking the water filter, on the one hand, the humidification function can be performed using condensate water without the need to add water to the air conditioner body, which can effectively improve the user experience; on the other hand, the water filter is more convenient to install and remove and has lower safety risks.
[0007] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the unlocking member is reciprocating between a reset position and the unlocking position, and when the unlocking member moves to the reset position, the quick-release assembly is adapted to lock the water filter in the mounting area.
[0008] In some embodiments, the unlock position is higher than the reset position, so that the unlocking member is adapted to move from the reset position to the unlock position by a lifting action.
[0009] Furthermore, the quick-release assembly also includes a first return spring, which cooperates with the unlocking member to apply a downward elastic return force to the unlocking member.
[0010] Furthermore, when the unlocking member moves to the reset position, the unlocking member engages with the water filter to lock the water filter in the installation area.
[0011] Furthermore, one of the unlocking element and the water filter has a slot, and the other has a pin, wherein the water filter is locked in the mounting area when the pin is engaged with the slot.
[0012] In some embodiments, the quick-release assembly further includes a positioning mechanism, which is linked to the unlocking member. When the unlocking member moves to the unlocking position, the unlocking member, in conjunction with the positioning mechanism, switches to a positioning state that locks the unlocking member.
[0013] Furthermore, when the water filter is released from the area that can be locked by the quick-release assembly, the water filter, in conjunction with the positioning mechanism, switches to a release state that releases the positioning of the unlocking component.
[0014] In some embodiments, the quick-release assembly further includes a positioning mechanism, which includes a rotating member and a second return spring. The rotating member is rotatably connected to the unlocking member, and the two ends of the rotating member are a first end and a second end, respectively. The mounting area has a locking portion. When the unlocking member moves to the unlocking position, the second return spring drives the rotating member to rotate until the first end engages with the locking portion, so that the rotating member locks the position of the unlocking member. When the pin is misaligned with the slot, the water filter actuates the second end to rotate, thereby overcoming the force of the second return spring and disengaging the first end from the locking portion.
[0015] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the water filter includes a filter section and an extension section, the extension section extending relative to the filter section toward the interior of the air conditioner body, the extension section having an inlet and / or an outlet, and the extension section having a mating structure suitable for being locked by the quick-release assembly.
[0016] Furthermore, the water filter includes two parallel extensions, with the inlet and outlet respectively located on the two extensions, and at least one extension having the mating structure.
[0017] In some embodiments, the air conditioner includes a condensate recovery system, the condensate recovery system including the inlet channel and the outlet channel, and the water filter is used to filter the condensate recovered by the condensate recovery system.
[0018] In some embodiments, the air conditioner is a split wall-mounted air conditioner, and the air conditioner body includes a front frame and a panel that can be opened and closed relative to the front frame. The mounting area is located on the front frame. When the panel is closed, the panel is adapted to cover the water filter installed in the mounting area. When the panel is open, the water filter and at least the trigger portion of the unlocking member are exposed.
[0019] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description
[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the assembly of a water filter, quick-release assembly, and water tank according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0022] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A magnified view of a portion of region A in the middle;
[0023] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the water filter and water tank disconnected according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the quick-release assembly in the reset position according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0025] Figure 6 and Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the engagement process between the quick-release assembly and the water filter during the disassembly process according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0026] Figure 8 and Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the process of quick-release components engaging with the water filter during installation according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0027] Figure label:
[0028] Air conditioner 100,
[0029] Air conditioner body 10, front frame 11, mounting area 111, mounting bracket 112, panel 12.
[0030] Water filter 20, filtration section 21, extension section 22, slot 221, inlet 222, outlet 223.
[0031] Quick-release assembly 30, unlocking component 31, pin 311, triggering part 312, first return spring 32, positioning mechanism 33, rotating component 331, first end 3311, second end 3312, second return spring 332.
[0032] Water tank 40, sealing ring 50. Detailed Implementation
[0033] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.
[0034] The following disclosure provides numerous different embodiments or examples for implementing various structures of the invention. To simplify the disclosure, specific examples of components and arrangements are described below. These are merely examples and are not intended to limit the invention. Furthermore, reference numerals and / or letters may be repeated in different examples. Such repetition is for simplification and clarity and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or arrangements discussed. Additionally, examples of various specific processes and materials are provided in this invention; however, those skilled in the art will recognize the applicability of other processes and / or the use of other materials.
[0035] Below, please refer to the appendix. Figure 1-9 An air conditioner 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is described.
[0036] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the air conditioner 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: an air conditioner body 10 and a water filter 20.
[0037] The air conditioner body 10 can be equipped with working modules such as a heat exchange module and a fresh air module for indoor heat exchange and air treatment. The heat exchange module will generate condensate during operation, while the fresh air module needs to supply water to the humidifier when performing the humidification function in order to achieve the humidification of indoor air.
[0038] The air conditioner body 10 has an installation area 111. The air conditioner body 10 includes a water inlet channel and a water outlet channel. The condensate generated by the heat exchange module can be injected into the water inlet channel. The water filter 20 is detachably installed in the installation area 111. When the water filter 20 is installed in the installation area 111, the water inlet 222 of the water filter 20 is connected to the water inlet channel, and the water outlet 223 of the water filter 20 is connected to the water outlet channel. The condensate filtered by the water filter 20 can be supplied to the humidifier. Thus, the humidification function can be realized without manually adding water to the air conditioner 100, improving the convenience of use.
[0039] It should be noted that the water tank 40 can be located upstream of the water filter 20. The condensate stored in the water tank 40 can be introduced into the water filter 20 for filtration by a water pump, and then directly supplied to the humidifier through the water outlet channel. Alternatively, the water tank 40 can be located downstream of the water filter 20. The condensate after filtration by the water filter 20 can be stored in the water tank 40 and used when humidification is needed.
[0040] However, the water filter 20 is used to filter condensate to remove impurities and foreign objects. After a period of use, the water filter 20 needs to be replaced or cleaned. Therefore, a quick-release component 30 is set in the installation area 111. The quick-release component 30 allows the water filter 20 to be disassembled quickly and conveniently, making disassembly and assembly more convenient and reducing safety hazards.
[0041] Specifically, the quick-release assembly 30 is disposed in the installation area 111 and is used to lock the water filter 20 in the installation area 111. The quick-release assembly 30 includes an unlocking member 31 that is movable relative to the air conditioner body 10. When the unlocking member 31 moves to the unlocking position, the quick-release assembly 30 is adapted to release the lock on the water filter 20.
[0042] It should be noted that the relative mobility of the unlocking component 31 of the present invention should be distinguished from its detachability. The mobility of the unlocking component 31 in the present invention refers to the displacement and angle change of the unlocking component 31 relative to the air conditioner body 10, so as to switch between the reset position and the unlock position. In the reset position, the water filter 20 is locked in the installation area 111. In the unlock position, the water filter 20 is unlocked, so that the water filter 20 can be replaced in the unlock position. In other words, the mobility of the unlocking component 31 in the present invention means that the unlocking component 31 and the air conditioner body 10 can be relatively displaced, but will not detach from the air conditioner body 10. This should be clearly distinguished from detachable connection structures such as screws.
[0043] It is understood that the quick-release assembly 30 of the present invention can remove the water filter 20 from the air conditioner body 10 by moving the unlocking member 31 to the unlocking position and taking the water filter 20 when the unlocking member 31 is in the unlocking position. Compared with the prior art, which requires holding a disassembly tool for disassembly such as screw fastening, even if the air conditioner body 10 is set at a high height, there is no need to hold a disassembly tool for disassembly, which has higher disassembly convenience and can free the hand holding the disassembly tool. The free hand can maintain balance, and under the premise of higher disassembly convenience, safety hazards can be reduced.
[0044] Furthermore, the movable nature of the unlocking component 31 relative to the air conditioner body 10 can be any structural form in which the unlocking component 31 is fixed to the air conditioner body 10, can be rotated, can be pried, or can be pulled. Switching the unlocking component 31 to the unlocking position makes the operation simpler and can even achieve blind disassembly.
[0045] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the air conditioner 100, by providing a water filter 20 and a quick-release assembly 30 for locking the water filter 20, can, on the one hand, use condensate water to perform the humidification function without the need to add water to the air conditioner body 10, which can effectively improve the user experience; on the other hand, the water filter 20 is more convenient to install and remove and has lower safety risks.
[0046] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the unlocking member 31 is reciprocating between a reset position and an unlocked position. When the unlocking member 31 moves to the reset position, the quick-release assembly 30 is adapted to lock the water filter 20 in the mounting area 111.
[0047] Specifically, the reset position and unlock position of the unlocking component 31 can be set relative to each other in the height direction, front-back direction or left-right direction. In the reset position, the quick-release component 30 can engage with the water filter 20 in a plug-in limit or a snap-in limit. In the unlock position, the quick-release component moves away from the water filter 20 to release the lock on the water filter 20.
[0048] Therefore, by making the unlocking member 31 reciprocate between the reset position and the unlock position, the structure of the unlocking member 31 is made simpler, and the operation of switching the unlocking member 31 between the reset position and the unlock position is made simpler and more convenient.
[0049] Of course, the switching between the reset position and the unlock position of the unlocking member 31 in the embodiments of the present invention is not limited to reciprocating motion. The unlocking member 31 can also be configured to unlock by unidirectional rotation, that is, clockwise rotation unlocks and counterclockwise rotation cannot be rotated, or counterclockwise rotation unlocks and clockwise rotation cannot be rotated.
[0050] For example, the unlocking member 31 can be constructed as a rotating member 331 that can rotate around the center. The rotating member 331 achieves unidirectional rotation through a ratchet structure, and at least one locking pin is provided in the circumference of the rotating member 331. When rotated by a certain angle, any locking pin enters the slot in the mounting area 111 to achieve locking. When rotated by a certain angle again, the locking pin moves out of the slot, and other adjacent locking pins do not enter the slot, then the position is switched to the unlocking position. When rotated again to allow the adjacent locking pin or the locking pin to enter the slot, the position is switched from the unlocking position to the reset position.
[0051] For example, if the unlocking component 31 has one locking pin in its circumference, it needs to rotate at least 360° to switch from the unlocking position to the reset position and then move back to the unlocking position. If the unlocking component 31 has six locking pins in its circumference, it needs to rotate at least 60° to switch from the unlocking position to the reset position and then move back to the unlocking position.
[0052] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments, the unlock position is higher than the reset position, so that the unlocking member 31 is adapted to move from the reset position to the unlock position by being lifted.
[0053] The reset position is located below the unlock position. The unlocking component 31 can move to the reset position under its own gravity, which can further simplify the structure of the quick-release component 30 and improve the working reliability of the quick-release component 30.
[0054] Furthermore, the quick-release assembly 30 also includes a first return spring 32, which cooperates with the unlocking member 31 to apply a downward elastic return force to the unlocking member 31.
[0055] Specifically, the first reset spring 32 can be constructed as a compression spring. The lower end of the unlocking member 31 is used to lock the water filter 20, while the upper end can be provided with a limiting post. The compression spring is sleeved in the limiting post, with one end pushing against the unlocking member 31 and the other end pushing against the outer shell of the quick-release assembly 30. When the unlocking member 31 moves to the unlocking position, the compression spring is compressed to store energy, so that the unlocking member 31 can be reset under the action of the elastic potential energy of the compression spring. The first reset spring 32 can also be constructed as a tension spring. One end is fixed to the outer shell of the quick-release assembly 30, and the other end is fixed to the end of the unlocking member 31 used to lock the water filter 20 (the lower end of the unlocking member 31). After the unlocking member 31 is pulled to the unlocking position, the tension spring is stretched to store energy, so that the unlocking member 31 can be reset under the action of the elastic potential energy of the tension spring.
[0056] In this way, by setting the first reset spring 32, the unlocking member 31 can be reset by the elastic deformation of the first reset spring 32. In the reset position, the first reset spring 32 can press or pull the unlocking member 31 so that the unlocking member 31 is always in the reset position, which can improve the locking reliability of the quick release assembly 30 to the water filter 20.
[0057] like Figure 3 As shown, further, when the unlocking member 31 moves to the reset position, the unlocking member 31 engages with the water filter 20 in a limiting action to lock the water filter 20 in the installation area 111.
[0058] Specifically, at least a portion of the water filter 20 is installed on the installation area 111. One end of the water inlet channel is connected to the water tank 40, and the other end is directly opposite the installation area 111. Alternatively, the installation area 111 is formed on the water tank 40, and the water inlet channel is formed on the water tank 40 (i.e., the outlet of the water inlet channel is located on the tank wall of the water tank 40 and is connected to the inlet 222). The installation structure of the water filter 20 for assembly into the installation area 111 and the unlocking member 31 can be arranged opposite each other in the vertical direction. The installation structure of the water filter 20 for assembly into the installation area 111 also forms a limiting structure and is used to cooperate with the unlocking member 31 so that, in the reset position, the unlocking member 31 locks the installation structure of the water filter 20 for assembly into the installation area 111, and in the unlocked position, the unlocking member 31 releases the limiting of the installation structure of the water filter 20 for assembly into the installation area 111.
[0059] This design not only improves the stability of the unlocking component 31 on the installation area 111, but also serves as an installation structure that limits the installation of the water filter 20 while locking it in the unlocked position. This simplifies the structure of the water filter 20, reduces its space occupation, and the locking structure is also the installation structure, allowing for simultaneous unlocking and removal of the water filter 20. This further simplifies the disassembly steps of the water filter 20 and improves disassembly convenience.
[0060] Understandably, one of the unlocking element 31 and the water filter 20 has a slot 221 and the other has a pin 311. When the pin 311 is inserted into the slot 221, the water filter 20 is locked in the mounting area 111.
[0061] For example, a slot 221 can be provided on the unlocking component 31, and a corresponding pin 311 can be provided on the water filter 20; or a pin 311 can be provided on the unlocking component 31, and a slot 221 can be provided on the water filter 20. The water filter 20 can be assembled into the mounting area 111 in the front-to-back direction, and the slot 221 and the pin 311 can be locked and limited in the vertical direction to restrict the movement of the water filter 20 in the front-to-back direction, thereby locking the water filter 20.
[0062] Of course, the locking and limiting structure of the unlocking member 31 and the water filter 20 is not limited to this. The unlocking member 31 and the water filter 20 can also lock the water filter 20 in the reset position by magnetic attraction.
[0063] like Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments, the quick-release assembly 30 further includes a positioning mechanism 33, which is linked to the unlocking member 31. When the unlocking member 31 moves to the unlocking position, the unlocking member 31, in conjunction with the positioning mechanism 33, switches to a positioning state that locks the position of the unlocking member 31.
[0064] The linkage between the positioning mechanism 33 and the unlocking component 31 means that the positioning mechanism 33 and the unlocking component 31 can move synchronously. While the positioning mechanism 33 moves synchronously with the unlocking component 31, at least a part of the positioning mechanism 33 can move relative to the unlocking component 31. When the unlocking component 31 switches to the unlocking position, the positioning mechanism 33 cooperates with surrounding components (e.g., the housing of the quick-release assembly 30) to lock the unlocking component 31, so that the unlocking component 31 can be locked in the unlocking position.
[0065] Understandably, during the process of disassembling the water filter 20, the user needs to manually push the unlocking part 31 to compress the first reset spring 32 so that the unlocking part 31 switches to the unlock position. In the unlock position, if the user releases his hand, the unlocking part 31 will automatically reset to the reset position. The user needs to operate the unlocking part 31 with one hand to unlock it and use the other hand to disassemble the water filter 20. The operation is cumbersome and difficult, and there is a safety hazard when the air conditioner body 10 is installed at a high height.
[0066] Furthermore, by setting a positioning mechanism 33, when the unlocking member 31 moves to the unlocking position, the positioning mechanism 33 moves upward synchronously and at least partially moves relative to the unlocking member 31 to lock the unlocking member 31 in the positioning state, thus preventing the unlocking member 31 from automatically resetting in the unlocking position. After the user completes the unlocking, he / she can pick up the water filter 20 with the hand that operated the unlocking member 31. This allows for one-handed disassembly of the water filter 20, improving the convenience of disassembling the water filter 20. It can be disassembled with one hand or even blindly, effectively reducing safety hazards.
[0067] like Figure 7 As shown, further, when the water filter 20 is released from the area that can be locked by the quick-release assembly 30, the water filter 20 linkage positioning mechanism 33 switches to the release state that releases the positioning of the unlocking member 31.
[0068] Specifically, the positioning mechanism 33 has a positioning state and a release state. In the positioning state, the unlocking member 31 is located in the unlocking position and cannot move. In the release state, the unlocking member 31 can switch between the unlocking position and the reset position. When the unlocking member 31 moves from the reset position to the unlocking position, the positioning mechanism 33 is linked with the unlocking member 31 and can switch to the positioning state. When the positioning mechanism 33 is in the positioning state, the positioning mechanism 33 is linked with the water filter 20. That is, when the installation structure of the water filter 20 used to install in the installation area 111 is removed from the air conditioner body 10 (i.e., moves away from the installation area 111), the positioning mechanism 33 can be triggered at one end of the installation structure, for example, by pushing or pulling the positioning mechanism 33, so as to disengage the other end of the positioning mechanism 33 from the outer shell of the quick-release component 30, thereby releasing the positioning state.
[0069] Therefore, while moving the unlocking component 31, the positioning mechanism 33 can be moved to the positioning state. And while moving the water filter 20, the positioning mechanism 33 can be switched from the positioning state to the release state. In the release state, the unlocking component 31 can be automatically reset to the reset position under the action of the first reset spring 32. Through the linkage between the unlocking component 31 and the positioning mechanism 33, and the linkage between the water filter 20 and the positioning mechanism 33, multiple unlocking steps that need to be triggered separately can be carried out in sequence, further simplifying the disassembly steps of the water filter 20 and making the operation of disassembly with one hand more convenient.
[0070] like Figures 6-9 As shown, in some embodiments, the quick-release assembly 30 further includes a positioning mechanism 33, which includes a rotating member 331 and a second return spring 332. The rotating member 331 is rotatably connected to the unlocking member 31. The two ends of the rotating member 331 are a first end 3311 and a second end 3312, respectively. The mounting area 111 has a locking part 112. When the unlocking member 31 moves to the unlocking position, the second return spring 332 drives the rotating member 331 to rotate until the first end 3311 engages with the locking part 112, so that the rotating member 331 locks the position of the unlocking member 31. When the pin 311 is misaligned with the slot 221, the water filter 20 pushes the second end 3312 to rotate, so as to overcome the force of the second return spring 332 and disengage the first end 3311 from the locking part 112.
[0071] Specifically, there is an included angle between the first end 3311 and the second end 3312. The first end 3311 can be selectively opposite to the locking part 112. The connection area between the first end 3311 and the second end 3312 is constructed as a pivot point. The rotating part 331 can rotate relative to the unlocking part 31 around the pivot point. The second return spring 332 is constructed as a compression spring and is disposed between the first end 3311 and the unlocking part 31. One end of the second return spring 332 pushes against the unlocking part 31, and the other end pushes against the first end 3311 to further improve the ease of disassembly of the water filter 20.
[0072] The unlocking member 31 may be provided with a receiving groove, the second reset spring 332 is provided in the receiving groove, and the first end 3311 may be provided with an abutment plate, which can extend into the locking part 112 which is constructed as a slot or a hole.
[0073] The disassembly process of water filter 20 is as follows:
[0074] like Figure 5 As shown, when the unlocking member 31 is in the reset position, the locking part 112 is located in the space defined by the housing of the quick release assembly 30 for the unlocking member 31 to slide, and the locking part 112 can be pushed against the inner wall of the housing of the quick release assembly 30 under the elastic force of the second reset spring 332.
[0075] like Figure 6 As shown, when the user pulls the unlocking part 31 upward, the rotating part and the second reset spring 332 move synchronously, and the first end 3311 can be pushed by the elastic force of the second reset spring 332 to extend into the locking part 112 of the mounting area 111, switching the positioning mechanism 33 to the positioning state.
[0076] like Figure 7 As shown, after the positioning mechanism 33 is in the positioning state, at least part of the slot 221 of the second end 3312 is in the slot 221. During the process of the water filter 20 being moved out, the side wall of the slot 221 pushes the second end 3312, and the second end 3312 drives the first end 3311 to disengage from the locking part 112. That is, the first end 3311 and the second end 3312 are constructed as a lever structure to realize the switching between the positioning state and the release state.
[0077] The assembly process of water filter 20 is as follows:
[0078] like Figure 8 As shown, at this time, the unlocking component 31 is in the reset position. The user holds the water filter 20 and extends the mounting structure of the water filter 20 into the mounting area 111. The slot 221 gradually moves to be opposite the pin 311. Both the pin 311 and the end of the mounting structure are provided with guide slopes to push the pin 311 to gradually move upward. Figure 9 As shown, push the water filter 20 further toward the installation area 111, so that the pin 311 is completely aligned with the slot 221. Under the elastic force of the first return spring 32, the pin 311 is inserted into the slot 221, achieving... Figure 5 The location shown.
[0079] like Figure 2 and Figure 4As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the water filter 20 includes a filter section 21 and an extension section 22 (i.e., the above-described mounting structure). The extension section 22 extends relative to the filter section 21 toward the interior of the air conditioning body 10. An inlet 222 and / or an outlet 223 are formed on the extension section 22, and the extension section 22 has a mating structure suitable for being locked by the quick-release assembly 30.
[0080] In other words, the extension 22 is used to assemble into the mounting area 111 to realize the assembly of the water filter 20 on the mounting area 111. A mating structure (i.e., slot 221) suitable for being locked by the quick-release assembly 30 is formed on the extension 22, so that the extension 22 serves as an installation structure for connecting the water filter 20 to the mounting area 111 and a locking structure for cooperating with the quick-release assembly 30. This can further simplify the structure of the water filter 20, eliminate the need for a separate mating structure for locking with the quick-release assembly 30, and improve the ease of assembly and disassembly of the water filter 20.
[0081] The installation area 111 may be provided with a plug hole for insertion and mating with the extension 22. A sealing ring 50 may be provided in the plug hole to achieve sealing between the water inlet channel and the water inlet 222, and between the water outlet channel and the water outlet 223.
[0082] It is understood that the water filter 20 includes two parallel extensions 22, with an inlet 222 and an outlet 223 respectively located on the two extensions 22, and at least one extension 22 having a mating structure.
[0083] Two extensions 22 are located at both ends of the filter section 21 so that condensate enters from one end of the filter section 21 and flows out from the other end of the filter section 21, extending the flow path and allowing for more thorough filtration and improved filtration effect. At least one extension 22 is provided with a mating structure, which is used to achieve mating with the unlocking member 31 to improve the fixed stability of the water filter 20 in the installation area 111.
[0084] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the air conditioner 100 includes a condensate recovery system, which includes an inlet channel and an outlet channel, and a water filter 20 is used to filter the condensate recovered by the condensate recovery system.
[0085] Specifically, the condensate recovery system includes at least a water tank 40 and a water pump. The water pump pumps the condensate in the drip tray into the water tank 40 or the water filter 20. The water tank 40 is located upstream or downstream of the water filter 20 to store condensate, while the water filter 20 filters the condensate. The inlet channel, outlet channel, water tank 40, and water pump form a complete flow path to achieve condensate filtration. In an embodiment where the water tank 40 is located upstream of the water filter 20, the water pump is connected to the water tank 40, the water tank 40 is connected to the water filter 20 through the inlet channel, and the outlet of the water filter 20 is connected to the outlet channel, which is directly connected to the humidifier for water supply. In an embodiment where the water tank 40 is located downstream of the water filter 20, the water pump is connected to the water filter 20 through the inlet channel, and the water filter 20 is connected to the water tank 40 through the outlet channel, while the water tank 40 is used to supply water to the humidifier.
[0086] Therefore, by filtering the condensate water through the water filter 20, the filtered condensate water, free of impurities and odors, can be used as a humidification water source. While achieving humidification, it can ensure that the humidified air is free of odors and pollution sources, effectively improving the indoor air environment. Moreover, there is no need to add water to the air conditioner body 10, which can effectively improve the user experience of the air conditioner 100.
[0087] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, the air conditioner 100 is a split wall-mounted air conditioner 100, and the air conditioner body 10 includes a front frame 11 and a panel 12 that is switchable opposite to the front frame 11. The mounting area 111 is located on the front frame 11. When the panel 12 is closed, the panel 12 is adapted to cover the water filter 20 installed in the mounting area 111. When the panel 12 is open, the water filter 20 and at least the trigger portion 312 of the unlocking member 31 are exposed.
[0088] Specifically, the split wall-mounted air conditioner 100 is installed at a relatively high height in the indoor space. The combination of the water filter 20 and the quick-release assembly 30 makes the installation and removal of the water filter 20 more convenient. The water filter 20 can be installed and removed with one hand, which can improve the safety of the installation and removal process, reduce safety hazards, and expose at least the trigger part 312 of the unlocking part 31 on the face frame 11, allowing users to remove it blindly, which can further improve the convenience of disassembly.
[0089] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.
[0090] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.
[0091] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.
[0092] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.
[0093] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.
[0094] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.
Claims
1. An air conditioner, characterized in that, include: An air conditioner body, the air conditioner body having an installation area, the air conditioner body including a water inlet channel and a water outlet channel; A water filter is detachably installed in the installation area. When the water filter is installed in the installation area, the water inlet of the water filter is connected to the water inlet channel, and the water outlet of the water filter is connected to the water outlet channel. The installation area is provided with a quick-release assembly, which is used to lock the water filter in the installation area. The quick-release assembly includes an unlocking member that is movable relative to the air conditioner body. When the unlocking member moves to the unlocking position, the quick-release assembly is adapted to release the lock on the water filter. One of the unlocking element and the water filter has a slot, and the other has a pin, wherein the water filter is locked in the mounting area when the pin is engaged with the slot; The quick-release assembly also includes a positioning mechanism, which is linked to the unlocking component. When the unlocking component moves to the unlocking position, the unlocking component is linked to the positioning mechanism to switch to a positioning state that locks the unlocking component. When the water filter is released from the area that can be locked by the quick-release assembly, the water filter, in conjunction with the positioning mechanism, switches to a release state that releases the positioning of the unlocking component; The positioning mechanism includes a rotating component and a second return spring. The rotating component is rotatably connected to the unlocking component. The two ends of the rotating component are a first end and a second end, respectively. The mounting area has a locking part. When the unlocking component moves to the unlocking position, the second return spring drives the rotating component to rotate until the first end engages with the locking part, so that the rotating component locks the position of the unlocking component. When the pin is misaligned with the slot, the water filter pushes the second end to rotate, so as to overcome the force of the second return spring and disengage the first end from the locking part.
2. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The unlocking member can reciprocate between the reset position and the unlocking position. When the unlocking member moves to the reset position, the quick-release assembly is adapted to lock the water filter in the installation area.
3. The air conditioner according to claim 2, characterized in that, The unlocking position is higher than the reset position, so that the unlocking member is adapted to move from the reset position to the unlocking position by being lifted.
4. The air conditioner according to claim 3, characterized in that, The quick-release assembly also includes a first return spring, which cooperates with the unlocking member to apply a downward elastic return force to the unlocking member.
5. The air conditioner according to claim 3, characterized in that, When the unlocking component moves to the reset position, the unlocking component engages with the water filter to lock the water filter in the installation area.
6. The air conditioner according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The water filter includes a filter section and an extension section. The extension section extends relative to the filter section toward the interior of the air conditioner body. The extension section has an inlet and / or an outlet, and has a mating structure suitable for being locked by the quick-release assembly.
7. The air conditioner according to claim 6, characterized in that, The water filter includes two parallel extensions, with the inlet and outlet respectively located on the two extensions, and at least one extension having the mating structure.
8. The air conditioner according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The air conditioner includes a condensate recovery system, which includes an inlet channel and an outlet channel. The water filter is used to filter the condensate recovered by the condensate recovery system.
9. The air conditioner according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The air conditioner is a split wall-mounted air conditioner, and the air conditioner body includes a front frame and a panel that can be opened and closed relative to the front frame. The installation area is located on the front frame. When the panel is closed, the panel is adapted to cover the water filter installed in the installation area. When the panel is open, the water filter and at least the triggering part of the unlocking member are exposed.